Bio:
Vonda Sines has been a writer and an editor her entire adult life. She left a conventional 8-to-5 career to pursure her passion of writing from dawn to dusk and beyond.
Vonda Sines has been a writer and an editor her entire adult life. She left a conventional 8-to-5 career to pursure her passion of writing from dawn to dusk and beyond.
Education/Experience:
Northwestern University, B.S. in Journalism (Medical Writing specialty); Seton HillUnniversity, M.A.
Northwestern University, B.S. in Journalism (Medical Writing specialty); Seton HillUnniversity, M.A.
Interests:
Experience: Many years of experience as a health/medical writer and editor. Interests: walking, writing, animal rescue, roses, reading.
Experience: Many years of experience as a health/medical writer and editor. Interests: walking, writing, animal rescue, roses, reading.
Motto:
Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
Displaying Results 1 - 200 (of 553)
There's hope for that cat that lives under the sofa or hisses every time you approach. Massage is a wonderful way to bond with cats and offers many health benefits as well. Here's what you need to know to get started.
By Vonda Sines | Published 2/7/2010
It's a rare genetic defect with a host of symptoms. It has no cure. Here's what you need to know about Angelman Syndrome.
By Vonda Sines | Published 2/3/2010
Some men don't know they have them. For many, they're harmless. Here's a guide to varicoceles, how they're linked to fertility problems, what might cause them and how to get relief.
By Vonda Sines | Published 2/2/2010
While some are painful, others are asymptomatic. Varicoceles are a lot more common in men than most imagine. Here's what you need to know about their symptoms.
By Vonda Sines | Published 2/2/2010
It's just too much. Use credit cards to pay for parking? In Washington, DC, you can.
By Vonda Sines | Published 2/2/2010
He was considered a little miracle when he was born four years ago. Now it's time for giant panda Tai Shan to leave behind his mom and dad and the panda compound at the National Zoo in Washington. His destination: a Chinese breeding program.
By Vonda Sines | Published 2/1/2010
Completed an Advanced Placement (AP) course and getting a good score on the AP exam for it can mean college credit or at least advanced standing for high school students. Here's how upcoming changes in the AP program will affect them.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/30/2010
For some, he was the greatest of American thoroughbreds. To others, he was either a tragic hero or the reason to help other horses. He was Barbaro, and we miss him.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/29/2010
They can feel puzzled, scared, rejected, hurt, angry, and upset. A child's view of Alzheimer's reflects all these emotions. Here are some tips for adults to help children understand this illness.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/28/2010
They range from vitamin C tabs to acupuncture. They're all examples of alternative medicine. Here are the most popular alternative treatments for pediatric asthma and information on how they can help a child.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/28/2010
While there are classic symptoms of pediatric asthma, each child's triggers and signs are different. Here's what adults need to know about recognizing three types of symptoms and managing asthma in children.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/27/2010
The type of cover on an asthmatic child's pillow might be just as important as the pills he or she swallows. Here's a summary of the various treatments effective for pediatric asthma.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/27/2010
The trigger might be the family Cockapoo or a spray of Chanel No. 5. The causes of pediatric asthma are many and vary with each child. Here's what you need to know about the potential triggers.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/27/2010
Living successfully with diabetes involves a lifetime commitment to managing the disease. When the severest symptoms or life events occur, emergency help might be necessary. Here's what you need to know about when diabetics should call 911.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/25/2010
It's an odd condition that primarily affects the elderly, especially those with Alzheimer's or another type of dementia. It takes its name from the time of day when it occurs.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/22/2010
Women who survive cancer are grateful to be alive. However, many of them suffer anxiety and even fear about resuming sexual intimacy. Here's what you need to know about the most common treatments and their side effects.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/21/2010
Many patients who suffer an underproducing thryoid find themselves also depressed. Here's what you need to know about the link between hypothyroidism and depression.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/20/2010
They can range from a loss of libido to the inability to perform. Here are the most common sexual side effects of treatments for cancer in men and how to deal with them.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/20/2010
Ovarian cysts are common. While most are harmless, some can cause problems for women--including infertility. Here are the most common types and information on those linked to problems becoming pregnant.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/20/2010
Interest is mounting daily in this expensive, hi-tech process that offers no guarantees of a baby. Here's what you need to know if you're considering female egg freezing for fertility.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/20/2010
Natural family planning charts graphically depict data to help determine a woman's most fertile days. Here's what you need to know about the types of charts and how to use them.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/19/2010
It poses no medical risks and little cost. However, the basal body temperature method for natural family planning requires a woman to be diligent in collecting and analyzing numbers. Here's what it involves.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/18/2010
It's completely natural and comes with no physical risks. Here's what you need to know if you're considering the cervical mucus method either as birth control or as way to help you get pregnant.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/18/2010
It's inexpensive, with no side effects, but just how reliable is it? Here's what you need to know about the rhythm method for family planning.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/18/2010
The road to finding the right method to control seizures can be exhausting. Here's what you need to know about the four most common types of conventional treatment for seizure control.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/18/2010
Not all seizures require medical intervention, and not all are linked to epilepsy. Doctors never find the cause of most. Here's a guide to the various approaches to controlling pediatric seizures.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/18/2010
Trying alternative treatments is tempting for epileptics who still suffer from seizures despite medications to stop them. Here are the main alternative treatments currently available and what they have to offer.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/18/2010
For three quarters of the children who experience seizures, doctors aren't able to uncover the cause. Here are the main types of childhood seizures and some possible culprits.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/18/2010
Few people realize that one of the oldest methods to treat epileptic seizures is diet. Here are two regimens that have shown promise in reducing or even eliminating seizures in patients with epilepsy.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/18/2010
Some patients and yoga experts think practicing yoga can control epileptic seizures by reducing stress and restoring a mind-body connection. Researchers aren't so sure.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/18/2010
The schedule for giving childhood vaccines can be confusing. Here's a guide to the current recommended immunizations and when children should get them.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/18/2010
The array of products available to stop smoking makes it tough to choose the best one that's also cost-effective. Here's a rundown on the most popular options.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/15/2010
Naturopathic doctors suggest a number of alternative treatments for an overactive bladder. They range from herbals such as corn silk to simply eliminating a food from your diet.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/14/2010
For a little gland shaped like a butterfly, the thyroid does a lot. Here are the major diseases and disorders associated with it and the treatments that tackle them.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/13/2010
These days, the choices are varied. At least half a dozen colon cancer screening tests are on the market. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of each one.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/13/2010
It's not how much you eat that counts when it comes to preventing iron deficiency that can lead to anemia. It's exactly what you eat. Here are some tips on what you can do to prevent this health problem.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/13/2010
Women as potential bearers of children are at a much higher risk for developing anemia than men are. Nearly one out of every two pregnant women has an iron deficiency. Here's what you need to know about the symptoms of anemia in women.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/12/2010
The symptoms of pediatric anemia range from a general feeling of fatigue to delayed growth and development. Sometimes parents are stunned to discover their child has a nutritional issue that's caused iron deficiency anemia.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/12/2010
Some kids aren't ready for college right after high school. For many, taking advantage of a gap year helps develop maturity, self-confidence and a more focused college experience afterward.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/11/2010
In addition to the treatments traditional medicine has to offer, patients suffering from anemia have a choice of many alternative medicine practices to improve their health. Here are there main options.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/11/2010
Their symptoms range from mild fatigue to a shutdown of the bloodmaking process. Here are the most common types of anemia, including their diagnosis, symptoms and treatment.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/11/2010
Its cause can be anything from a car accident to a bone marrow problem linked to chemotherapy. There are many forms of anemia. Doctors select the appropriate treatment for each patient based on the exact cause of the condition.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/11/2010
All types of emergency contraception are most effective when used as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse. Here are the types currently available.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/7/2010
An estimated six million American women suffer from heart disease. Many of them aren't aware of any symptoms until they have a heart attack. Here's what to look for, along with the risk factors for women's heart disease.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/6/2010
Some women swear these hormones have changed their lives. The FDA takes a dim view of some of these products. Here's the rundown on the benefits and disadvantages of using bioidentical hormones to treat the symptoms of menopause.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/6/2010
At least five type of tests provide data to diagnose or exclude osteoporosis. Here's how each one works and any drawbacks associated with the technology.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/6/2010
The initial reaction to penicillin usually catches most people by surprise. Subsequent exposure can result in even more dramatic symptoms. Here are the signs of a penicillin allergy and information on who's at highest risk for developing one.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/5/2010
There are both benefits and disadvantages to using an MRI for breast cancer screening if you're a woman determined to be at elevated risk for the disease. Here's what you need to know about this technology.
By Vonda Sines | Published 1/5/2010
Does your child suffer from obstructive sleep apnea? Here are the signs and symptoms of this sleep disturbance and the ways to treat it.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/31/2009
It's a rare disease of the blood and bone marrow. While there's no cure, many patients survive for a decade or longer. Though its exact cause remains elusive, here are the risk factors for developing hairy cell leukemia.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/30/2009
The liturgical calendar can get very confusing at times. Here's a rundown on all the Catholic holy days for 2010 along with information on the Church's moveable feasts.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/30/2009
It's one of the rarest and most tragic diseases science can't prevent. However, enzyme replacement therapy has brought some hope for patients who suffer from Pompe disease.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/28/2009
If you're facing heart surgery, it's important to know what to expect about your recovery to avoid unnecessary anxiety. Here are tips to ease your path back to a normal life.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/24/2009
It's a serious condition that goes by many names. It can result in pain, a sudden heart attack or even death. Here are the causes and symptoms of ischemic heart disease.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/24/2009
Lifestyle is undoubtedly the most important factor in preventing heart disease. However, for patients who already have it, there are a number of alternative treatments available. While some have been deemed effective, others remain controversial.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/24/2009
In the last few decades, new technology has profoundly expanded the medical community's knowledge of the human heart. As a result, a baby born today with a congenital heart defect has an excellent change of being treated and reaching adulthood.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/24/2009
Many parents get upset when they see their baby's feet turning inward. This condition is very common at birth and resolves on its own 85 percent of the time. Several therapies can help babies who need treatment.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/24/2009
This condition perplexes the medical community because the exact cause remains elusive while patients suffer. Doctors do know that complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) has three stages and that the earlier treatment starts, the better the result.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/23/2009
An irregular heartbeat can be frightening but doesn't always indicate the presence of a serious health problem. Here's what you should know if you suffer from any type of heart arrhythmia.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/22/2009
Although heart catheterization comes with risks and potential complications, the amount of information it can provide is staggering. Here's what you need to know if you're facing this procedure.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/22/2009
An irregular heartbeat can be downright scary. In addition to more conventional treatments like medication and surgery, doctors sometimes prescribe odd physical movements known as vagal maneuvers. Here's how they work.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/22/2009
It's initially feels like indigestion and can generate so much pain, the patient gets scared. Angina is only a warning of a more serious condition. Here are its types and how to treat them.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/21/2009
It might start as a tingling in your legs instead of pain in your back. Although it's often the result of the aging process, spinal stenosis has a number of causes.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/21/2009
It affects both children and adults. It could be reason why the person looking at you can't seem to focus on your face. Here are the types of nystagmus and its causes.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/18/2009
They range from drugs for breast cancer to robots executing sutures during surgery. Here are the top 10 medical advances of the decade.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/18/2009
It helps those convicted on a crime one-on-one using DNA testing and also works for improvements in the judicial system. Here's how the Innocence Project tries to right some of society's wrongs.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/17/2009
They all made the news in the last decade. The list of ways to reduce cancer deaths includes lifestyle changes, environmental issues and new technology. Here are the top 10.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/17/2009
It's what makes your clothes tight. It's that inner tube around your tummy. Here's why people gain weight in midlife and how to battle it.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/17/2009
While it's rare, patients still die as the result of anesthesia administered during surgery. Sometimes the culprit is a condition known as malignant hyperthermia. Here are the facts about this inherited disease.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/16/2009
Antidepressants are powerful drugs that can cause a number of side effects. Knowing about their medication can help patients deal with any side effects they might experience while taking it.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/15/2009
Experts aren't really sure how to prove the theory that lack of serotonin causes depression. Here's the low-down on this neurotransmitter and medications that attempt to regulate its levels in the body.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/15/2009
It's a case of too much of a good thing. While serotonin is a necessary substance in the body, levels that are too high can mean a lot of trouble.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/15/2009
These days, women contemplating a pregnancy have a lot more to do than get a nursery ready and think about child care. Here are some pre-pregnancy health care tips every woman thinking about getting pregnancy should consider.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/14/2009
For many women with breast cancer, a lumpectomy is a breast-sparing alternative to much more extensive surgery. Here's what to expect as far as the procedure and recovery from the surgery.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/14/2009
Medicare, Medicaid, Medigap. Sometimes the terms seem endless. Medicare is a huge system that's tough to navigate. Here are some tips that will help if you're eligible and considering enrolling.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/14/2009
Screening tests are one of six steps men can take to stay healthy. Here are the tests that are the most important for men and who needs them.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/14/2009
With the number of health screening tests increasing every year, it can be difficult for women to decide which ones are really necessary. Here's a list of the ones that are essential.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/14/2009
It's a rare neurological umbrella of diseases that are also hereditary. Charcot-Marie-Tooth syndrome often appears when the patient is young and progresses as the years pass.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/14/2009
The tingling and pain resulting from neuropathy can be life-changing to those who suffer from it. Here are the main causes of this condition.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/13/2009
The unthinkable has happened. It might have been a divorce, a death in the family or a dreaded medical diagnosis. Here are tips for helping you and your family face the holidays in spite of it.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/12/2009
Call a plumber and pay a lot. Remove a toilet yourself and save a bundle. Here are some tips on exactly how to do it.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/9/2009
Last year Americans spent an average of more than $900 each on holiday gifts. If you've resolved to reduce your spending but still have names on your gift list, you need to take control of your holiday shopping. Here are some tips to help.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/9/2009
There are foods that can help. There are things that can cause problems. No one diet is ideal for all lupus patients. Here are some tips on finding the best alternatives for optimum health.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/7/2009
Lupus is no longer the dreaded disease it once was for many individuals. In addition to traditional medicine, a number of alternative treatments are available. However, few have been thoroughly investigated.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/7/2009
Alternative treatments for an enlarged prostate have been gaining in popularity over the last few years. Read which ones are on the market and how experts think some of them might work.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/7/2009
While lupus was once a very scary disease with a negative prognosis, most patients diagnosed today lead active lives. Here are the symptoms common to this chronic inflammatory illness.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/7/2009
They're the unsung heroes of the graying population: caregivers for Alzheimer's patients. Their task requires skill, patience, flexibility and a big heart. Here are some tips to help them succeed.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/7/2009
They suffer from hopelessness, stress and exhaustion. For Alzheimer's caregivers, particularly those who are homebound, sometimes there's nowhere to turn for help. Here are online sites that provide caregiver support day and night.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/7/2009
You might have tucked away your marriage certificate in a safe-deposit box, but what have you done to safeguard your daughter's first baby picture? Here are some tips on how to preserve your most important documents.
By Vonda Sines | Published 12/6/2009
It's a rare neurological disease primarily affecting those in the second half of life. Here are the symptoms and treatment options for corcicobasal degeneration (CBD).
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/29/2009
It first appears as a mime of sorts. Doctors often mistakenly link some of its symptoms to Parkinson's disease. While progressive supranuclear palsy has no cure, certain medications and therapies can help some patients.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/28/2009
For most patients, it provides hope for conquering depression in only a few months. Cognitive behavioral therapy has become immensely popular in the last 20 years. Here's why and how it works.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/24/2009
They've helped some patients, done nothing for others and created unpleasant results for some. Complementary and alternative therapies for epilepsy range from herbal supplements to biofeedback. One of them is now part of conventional medicine.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/24/2009
Although seizures have many causes, epilepsy is one of the most common. Fortunately, doctors how have a number of ways to definitively diagnosis this condition.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/24/2009
If you're planning on reading to your unborn baby or shopping for suitable music to play, you'll want to know what researchers believe about prenatal learning.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/21/2009
If you're entertaining during the holidays, you'll want to have time to actually enjoy the food and the occasion yourself. Here are some tips to make sure everything is in order in the kitchen to help you avoid stress.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/21/2009
Vertigo is downright scary each time the patient experiences its symptoms. However, a number of medical treatments and other coping techniques can make life a lot easier.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/20/2009
It's a sadness that doesn't lift, a loss of interest in things that were favorites. Here's a self-assessment to help you decide whether you could be depressed.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/19/2009
It's a disabling mental condition that affects not only patients but also their families and friends. Here are some tips for finding support resources for bipolar disorder.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/19/2009
You want her bridal shower to be perfect, everything that money can buy. You don't need to bust your budget for a memorable event, however. Here are some tips to host a creative bridal shower when funds are limited.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/18/2009
They look frightful but are usually harmless. Subconjunctival hemorrhages are the result of small burst blood vessels in the eye. While most need no treatment, in some situations, you might need to visit an eye doctor.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/18/2009
It looks a lot worse than it really is. The red patch in the white of your eye can be caused by a lot of factors. It's usually harmless and doesn't even hurt. Here are the things that can cause it.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/18/2009
Sometimes picking the right remodeling contractor can be more stressful than living through the project itself. Here are some tips to help you find the right company or individual to turn your plans into reality.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/17/2009
Most kids experience some degree of stress every day. However, new and different types of problems like illness or the loss of a parent's income can be hard to handle. Here are ways you can help.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/17/2009
Teenage obesity has become an American epidemic. However, there's a lot frustrated parents can do to help prevent it. Check out these suggestions.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/17/2009
They go by a variety of titles - counselor, family therapist, psychotherapist - with a string of initials after their names. Here's how to choose the right one to provide therapy for your child.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/17/2009
A child with low self-esteem is one who will have a hard time in life. Here are some tips for parents to help develop a child's self-confidence and self-esteem.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/17/2009
A student who graduated a decade ago might not recognize today's curriculum at his or her medical school. Here's how health care reform has affected these schools and what to expect as a result.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/13/2009
Without health insurance, the task of finding free or low-cost mental health care is often an uphill battle. Here are some sources that can help.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/12/2009
Starting January 1, 2010, treatment for mental health or substance abuse should be on an equal footing with that for medical or surgical claims under many health insurance plans. Find out if yours qualifies and how to take advantage of the change.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/11/2009
Recovery from rotator cuff surgery can take up to a year. Here's what you should expect from the time you enter the recover room until your repair has healed.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/11/2009
You're in a rush because of the holiday season. You have dozens of things to do before getting on the plane, including packing. Here's how to handle your luggage safely when you're in a hurry.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/10/2009
They're the leading cause of vision loss in the world. By the time a practitioner diagnoses cataracts, vision is already compromised. Thanks to NASA and the space program, new technology can actually predict them.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/10/2009
Just as practitioners of alternative medicine have become more popular over the last decade, veterinarians who use alternative health treatments for pets are now in great demand. Here's how they can help your dog.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/9/2009
It can occur suddenly, causing severe and debilitating pain. The greatest risk factor is age. Spinal stenosis sufferers have a variety of treatment options these days. Here's the lowdown on each of them.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/9/2009
Whether it's a mild cramping or so severe that it causes an individual to bend over, abdominal pain can be frightening. Here are eight of the most common causes.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/9/2009
It's officially the "Commonwealth of Virginia," not the "State of Virginia". Here's how that happened.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/6/2009
The good news is that they're not linked to a risk for cancer and usually don't need to be treated. However, their symptoms can disrupt the lives of some women. Here's what you need to know about uterine fibroid treatments.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/5/2009
If you're suffering from pain, burning or gas, you could have any one of these common digestive disorders. Here's the list.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/5/2009
There are dozens of brands in front of you, many at the same price. How do you go about comparing electric toothbrushes? Here are some guidelines to help you get the best buy.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/3/2009
You want a brighter smile but have a budget to consider. Should you have your teeth whitened by your dentist or buy an over-the-counter product? Here's the information you need to help you decide.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/3/2009
The best gift is one you know she'll like but that will surprise her. Subscribe to any of these six great magazines, and you'll know you have the perfect Christmas gift for a mom on your list.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/2/2009
Though they come in a number of colors these days, their brilliant red has become the shade most associated with Christmas. Here's a legend well known in Mexican folklore that explains how the poinsettia came to be.
By Vonda Sines | Published 11/2/2009
Sometimes all it takes is too much time in the sun or a food you normally eat only in certain months. Here's how to avoid seasonal migraines by tracking and eliminating their triggers.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/29/2009
It's the worst kind of headache. It can be triggered by everything from noise to hormones. Food and beverages, however, are also major causes of migraines. Find out which are the most likely culprits.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/29/2009
It causes a pain like no other. A migraine is perhaps the most disabling type of headache. Here are the top medications used to prevent and treat these dreaded headaches.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/29/2009
He's the man who loves luxury or the one who only appreciates the unique. Where can you find a suitable Christmas gift for him? Here are some unusual gifts that will make him smile.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/29/2009
Everybody already has a cell phone, right? While many people do, there are hundreds of holiday gift ideas already on the market to accessorize these phones. Here are some of the best and most affordable.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/29/2009
Perhaps the most distinctive thing about this Christian holiday is its pagan roots. Some Christmas customs are 4,000 years old. Not Santa, though. We can thank the Dutch for this roly-poly holiday tradition.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/27/2009
Buying holiday stocking stuffers for a new dad isn't always the easiest task. However, you'll find some innovative products in the stores and on the cybershelves this year at great prices.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/27/2009
What do you give a new mom who's already had three baby showers? Answer: something to pamper her. Here are some great holiday stocking stuffers that will do just that.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/27/2009
Although the holiday originated as a celebration of the birth of Christ, many non-Christian countries also observe Christmas. Here are some of the more interesting traditions from countries that celebrate the holiday.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/27/2009
Whether you need tool bootcamp or just want to save money on home repairs, you'll need to learn how to find your way around a toolbox. Here are some tips to get you started.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/23/2009
We've heard about the horror stories of patients who get lost for days and can't recall their names. The prospect of Alzheimer's disease looms in front of many seniors. But what exactly is this illness?
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/21/2009
It can help you jump higher and faster. It loads your muscles with explosive power. Plyometric training can be customized for each sport, but it isn't just for athletes.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/19/2009
They look incredibly exotic but are startlingly affectionate. In appearance, many resemble a leopard. Among cat breeds, they're the rarest of the rare.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/19/2009
Aging brings with it the possibility of many dental problems. Here are the common issues seniors face and the right dental products to deal with them.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/19/2009
January 15 for many Americans brings a round of groans as holiday bills start to arrive. For those who didn't follow a holiday dental care plan, it can also mean big charges for restorative work.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/19/2009
They're cute and maybe squeak a lot. Some of them are so popular they make jaws tired from chewing. But no matter how much your cat or dog loves certain toys, are you certain they're really safe for your pet?
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/19/2009
After reading a 1995 article in Parade Magazine, a woman made a decision that changed the lives of thousands of children. Here's how Project Linus got its start and what it's doing today.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/16/2009
Although he or she might still be all legs, your new puppy will show you a distinct personality. You'll want to pick a name that's just right for your new pal. Take a peek at the most popular ones.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/14/2009
If your dog's idea of exercise is begging at the table and last year's sweater no longer fits, it's time to shed some pounds. Here are some suggestions on how to help your dog lose weight.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/13/2009
If your family would love a dog but some of you have allergies, you're not out of luck. A number of breeds are considered non-shedding. Here are eight of them.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/13/2009
In the midst of a tight economy, many Americans are scratching their heads over how to save money on the holidays. Here are some easy tips for saving money on the dinner your serve on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/12/2009
There are hundred of models on the market. How do you decide whether you really need one and which ones are best for you? Here are five questions to ask your dentist about electric toothbrushes.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/12/2009
It your budget cringes at your dentist's proposed price to whiten your teeth, don't lose heart. Many over-the-counter products are safe, reasonably priced and easy to use.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/12/2009
She can help you before, during and after childbirth. But how on earth can you find the doula that's the right choice for your family?
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/11/2009
Ingesting the remnants of a few smoked cigarettes can kill a cat if the animal doesn't make it to a vet right away. Here are the dangers and what can be done if a cat is poisoned by some form of nicotine.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/10/2009
After it was first identified in 2002, SARS quickly infected 8,000 individuals worldwide. Its respiratory symptoms are like some of those associated with the flu. Read how doctors can tell if you have SARS.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/9/2009
For some patients with this condition, a simple cut can morph into a life-threatening accident. Find out who's at risk and which treatments make life a lot simpler for individuals suffering from this disease.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/6/2009
They're cute little guys who even greet you when you approach the cage. Here's what you need to know if you choose one or more guinea pigs as a family pet.
By Vonda Sines | Published 10/1/2009
Whether it's non-stop back pain or ADHD that's troublesome, there's now a medicine patch to help you cope. Read about six of the most commonly prescribed patches.
By Vonda Sines | Published 9/21/2009
Although even its mention makes people uneasy, the swine flu isn't so different from the regular flu as far as how it's spread. By being aware of how the virus takes hold, you can take some precautions to help avoid catching it.
By Vonda Sines | Published 9/21/2009
A recent study of seniors suffering from Alzheimer's disease revealed some dramatic results. Researchers concluded that infections and injuries just might speed memory loss for individuals suffering from this type of dementia.
By Vonda Sines | Published 9/17/2009
You need a graduate degree to move your career forward or change your line of work. Paying for it can be a scary proposition in a tough economy. Read about your current options.
By Vonda Sines | Published 9/17/2009
Picture a college graduation 10 years from now. The prospective graduate, still in his pajamas in Oregon, flips on his computer to attend his graduation online. He finishes getting dressed for work just as the dean, in Virginia, calls his name.
By Vonda Sines | Published 9/14/2009
It's a very rare but vicious condition that can change a patient's life forever. Read why it can take its victims weeks or even months to recover.
By Vonda Sines | Published 9/9/2009
When it strikes, it can be terrifying for the patient as well as friends or family members in the same room. This rare type of amnesia robs its victims of only part of their memories and only for a few hours.
By Vonda Sines | Published 9/2/2009
They hurt enough to make you wince with even the slightest movement. For years, most rotator cuff injuries were treated by surgery. Today, however, many patients have a choice of non-surgical options.
By Vonda Sines | Published 9/2/2009
It's the type of cancer most people would least expect, with a host of symptoms. Here are the basics of nasopharyngeal cancer and how doctors go about diagnosing it.
By Vonda Sines | Published 8/28/2009
As a parent, you might feel helpless as your teen stresses out over college applications. You might even get angry when he or she targets a school way beyond your financial means. Here's how to dial down the stress.
By Vonda Sines | Published 8/27/2009
That whiz kid who couldn't wait to start kindergarten is struggling with the whole idea of school just a few years later. Here's what you can do to make him or her a more confident student.
By Vonda Sines | Published 8/26/2009
Adults get this fierce skin infection, but it's much more common in children. Here's what you need to know about its causes and treatment.
By Vonda Sines | Published 8/23/2009
The call might come when you least expect it. If you're looking for work during a tough economy, deciding whether to accept a job offer can be difficult. Here are the steps you need to take before making your decision.
By Vonda Sines | Published 8/22/2009
Its symptoms can be scary. Some sufferers feel like they're having a heart attack. However, there's a lot you can do to alleviate the annoying symptoms of acid reflux just by axing a few things from your diet.
By Vonda Sines | Published 8/21/2009
We hear them from the time we're children. Myths about poison ivy and how to get it abound. Here are the most popular ones and the truth about each one.
By Vonda Sines | Published 8/20/2009
Most but not all cases of poison ivy can be treated at home. For a few people really sensitive to the plant's leaves, seeing a doctor might bring the only relief.
By Vonda Sines | Published 8/19/2009
Although it can be a killer, stomach cancer is thankfully on the decline in the United States. Here are the current treatments available to help patients who suffer from this type of malignancy.
By Vonda Sines | Published 8/19/2009
It's nasty business and can be fatal to an unspayed female cat. Learn how to be on the looking for the symptoms of pyometra and what to expect if your cat actually has it.
By Vonda Sines | Published 8/17/2009
Lots of things can be responsible when a cat finds it difficult to breathe. Here's one that can be fatal if you don't seek treatment right away.
By Vonda Sines | Published 8/15/2009
It only strikes individuals who have survived the polio virus. Its cause remains unknown, and there is no cure on the horizon. Read how polio appears to create a rebound effect on many patients.
By Vonda Sines | Published 8/13/2009
It's frightening for any woman to find out she has a lump in her breast. Many of these growths turn out to be fibroadenomas. Here's the lowdown on them and how they're treated.
By Vonda Sines | Published 8/12/2009
The event might have seemed minor, perhaps just a pronounced bump on the head. But if the injury resulted in an intracranial hematoma, you need prompt medical attention. Here's why.
By Vonda Sines | Published 8/11/2009
Chalk it up to sadness, rage, frustration or exhuberation from some really great news. Regardless of the reason, you start to cry. Read what happens to cause your body to produce tears when you cry.
By Vonda Sines | Published 8/8/2009
It has a number of causes. Its symptoms can creep up on sufferers over many years before they're finally diagnosed.
By Vonda Sines | Published 8/6/2009
The victims' psyches and their faces might be battered. A program staffed with medical volunteers helps victims of domestic abuse regain their lives after serious injuries.
By Vonda Sines | Published 8/2/2009
Recent studies suggest there is new hope for women who develop melanoma during a pregnancy or who want to have a child after surviving it. Here's what doctors are advising their patients.
By Vonda Sines | Published 8/1/2009
Their first day of school might be happy or stressful. Or both. Here are the five most important questions on kids' minds before their first day of kindergarten and how you should address them.
By Vonda Sines | Published 8/1/2009
While it's one of the most common cancers found in American women, endometrial cancer is also one of the most curable. Find out whether you or a loved one is at risk for this type of malignancy.
By Vonda Sines | Published 7/31/2009
It's still 90 degrees outside, but the new school term is right around the corner. Here are 10 tips to help you and your family transition from a laid-back summer schedule to one for the new school year.
By Vonda Sines | Published 7/29/2009
Sometimes it's easy to identify a food that causes an allergic reaction because it's obvious that you eat it every day. However, for most patients, a visit to the allergist is a must to pinpoint the offender.
By Vonda Sines | Published 7/29/2009
You were only out in the sun briefly but ended up with a red rash. It itches and is driving you crazy. Find out whether you might have sun poisoning and what to do about it if you do.
By Vonda Sines | Published 7/28/2009
They're cute but pesky, little devils. They dig, they chew, and they take over a property. Here are some effective ways to get rid of them.
By Vonda Sines | Published 7/27/2009
If your dog's a chewer, you'll need to be watching what he swallows. That plastic toy or big piece of rawhide might just result in a problem that requires quick surgery.
By Vonda Sines | Published 7/23/2009
If you catch it early enough, your cat will probably recover. However, surgery is almost a certainty. Read how to spot an intussusception before it becomes fatal.
By Vonda Sines | Published 7/23/2009
It hurts as much as being in labor, though it most often strikes small children. Read about the symptoms of an intussusception and what modern medicine can do to help you if you experience one.
By Vonda Sines | Published 7/20/2009
If you ever taste one, you'll be talking about it for days. There are 100 varieties of heirloom tomatoes available, and their popularity is surging.
By Vonda Sines | Published 7/19/2009
In 30 seconds, they can spoil a picnic and leave you with an illness. In really hot weather, they're everywhere. Here's how to deal with really pesky summer insects.
By Vonda Sines | Published 7/18/2009
A recent study suggested a link between patients with angina and depression or anxiety. Those without these psychological stressors reported significantly fewer angina attacks.
By Vonda Sines | Published 7/15/2009
A recent study suggests that many children in the U.S. living with asthma aren't getting the right dose of medication from their inhalers. Here are tips for what you can do to prevent this problem.
By Vonda Sines | Published 7/15/2009
Never heard of them? That's because they don't grace most American tables yet. However, the tamarillo is full of Vitamin C and has dozens of uses to add variety to any family's cuisine.
By Vonda Sines | Published 7/14/2009
It combines the advantages of a curriculum designed just for girls and the ease of online learning. When the Online School for girls opens in the Fall, it will mark the beginning of a most unusual experiment in education.
By Vonda Sines | Published 7/10/2009
You've moved, and your new kitchen is tiny compared to your old one. Here are a dozen suggestions to help you take advantage of your new compact space.
By Vonda Sines | Published 7/9/2009
The effort to save the live critters in the Chesapeake Bay has been underway for a quarter of a century. A new report suggests that not only are the living things in the water at risk, but the health of humans might also be affected.
By Vonda Sines | Published 7/8/2009
They acted like the ideal American family: him, her and eight well-scrubbed kids. They capitivated fans for years before delivering the shocking news that a divorce in the works. Here are some lessons learned from reality TV.
By Vonda Sines | Published 7/5/2009
Some charges such as bank fees are generally obvious to the account holder. But you might be surprised at others you're paying or about to be assessed. Here are common fees you should eliminate to save money.
By Vonda Sines | Published 7/4/2009
This rare genetic disorder affects just 1 of every 10,000 children born. Its symptoms range from brain tumors to skin abnormalities, and there's no cure for it yet.
By Vonda Sines | Published 7/3/2009
There were no crumbs in sight when you took off on your last family road trip. However, the messy, smelly vehicle that brought all of you home hardly resembled the car that backed out of your driveway.
By Vonda Sines | Published 7/2/2009
With the value of their homes and investments sinking, many seniors consider reverse mortgages an attractive way to meet daily living expenses. However, a recent Federal report suggests they might be at risk for abusive lending practices.
By Vonda Sines | Published 7/1/2009
It comes in bars, jars and bottles and in every color of the rainbow. If you're looking for soap, you have hundreds of choices. Here's how to pick the right type for your skin.
By Vonda Sines | Published 6/29/2009
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